Why Choose a Mermaid & Under-the-Sea Theme for Your Birthday Party
A mermaid and under the sea theme for a birthday is a fun choice because it feels a little different from the usual party ideas people choose nowadays. A mermaid birthday party focuses on bright colors, ocean creatures, and a bit of fantasy that kids like.
Another reason parents choose this theme is that it is playful and very flexible. It works well for different ages and preferences. It’s suitable for kids who love mermaids, sea animals, or just the idea of being underwater. Since it’s not as common as some other themes, it also feels more special.
Under-the-Sea Party Invitations and Announcements
Invitations are the first thing people see. First impression matters, right? If it looks fun and thoughtful, there’s a higher chance they’ll attend.
For an under the sea birthday party, you can choose digital invitations, printed ones, or even both. Digital invites are fast and easy to send. But physical invitations feel more special and personal. A nice idea is to make them match, so everything feels cohesive.
There’s no need to go over the top here! Simple designs work best. Things like shells, mermaid tails, bubbles, or soft blue and purple tones are the most suitable. You don’t need anything too fancy.
Decorations for a Magical Under-the-Sea Celebration
Mermaid party decorations are a big part of the fun. Use a soft color palette: blue, purple, mint, and soft pink work best. Use simple sea details, such as shells, bubbles, fish, or mermaid shapes. You don’t need to overdo it; just a few well-placed items are enough. Shiny or sheer fabrics help reflect light, subtly giving things an underwater look.
DIY under the sea decorations work well for small details if you have time. Things like paper cutouts, table signs, or centerpieces are the easiest ones. Store-bought decor is better for bigger items or when you want everything done fast. The most straightforward approach is to mix both: buy the main pieces, then add a few handmade touches here and there to make it feel more personal without too much stress.
If you want a big difference with little effort, get some balloon decorations. Pastel, pearl, or transparent balloons fit the theme naturally. Use them for a photo area, a slight arch, or a garland along a wall or table. You don’t need a huge setup with hundreds of balloons. Even a single balloon feature helps fill the space and makes the party look better.
Under-the-Sea Birthday Party Food and Drinks
The cake is the main thing, it always is. You can bake one yourself, order a custom cake, or just grab a simple cake and decorate it with ocean colors, shells, or a mermaid topper. It doesn’t need to be too fancy to work.
For snacks, keep it basic. Cookies, cupcakes, jelly cups, or small treats with blue, purple, or teal colors fit the theme perfectly. Even regular snacks look “underwater” when you change the colors or add a fun name.
Drinks are simple too. Juice, lemonade, or punch in clear cups works perfectly. Add colorful straws and call it done.
One important thing, though. Yes, it’s an under the sea theme party, but don’t bring real fish. That would be awkward, and not everyone likes fish anyway. So yeah…no fish. Stick to sweets and kid-friendly food, and you’re good.
Mermaid Birthday Party Games, Activities, and Entertainment
Easy games with close to no prep:
- Pin the Tail on the Mermaid. Print a mermaid, cut out tails, use tape, blindfold (or just “close your eyes”).
- Musical Shells. Musical chairs, but use shell mats or paper shells on the floor.
- Ocean Freeze Dance. Dance, then freeze when the music stops. If they move, they do a “mermaid pose” and jump back in.
- Bubble Chase. One adult blows bubbles, and kids pop them. Works every time.
Craft table when you need a break from active games:
- Paint mini jewelry boxes. Give each kid one box with paint markers or acrylic paint.
- Decorate “treasure” bags. Paper bags, stickers, markers, and then use them for candy/favors.
- Mermaid crowns. Pre-cut crowns that kids decorate and staple to fit.
Main event kinds of games:
- Treasure hunt. Hide shiny “gems” (plastic jewels, gold coins). Give them a small map or just clues like “near something blue.”
- Photo corner. A backdrop with a balloon garland and a few props (tiaras, shells) keeps kids having fun without you having to run games.
And an extra tip – don’t make kids move all the time. Choose a few games and have kids move a bit, then have some passive fun at the crafting table, etc. Otherwise, they’ll become too tired too quickly.
Mermaid Party Favors and Goodie Bags
No need to go overboard with the mermaid birthday party. Make the favor part of the activity. Have kids paint mini jewelry/trinket boxes during the party, then send the boxes home. It keeps them busy, and you don’t need to buy a separate “main” favor.
For goodie bags, don’t overpack them. Pick a small bag or box that won’t rip, add the trinket box, and one tiny extra that kids will actually use (stickers/tattoos/clips). And that’s about it!
Planning Tips and Checklist for a Stress-Free Party
Pick 2-3 “core activities” and build around them. If you try to run eight activities, you’ll spend the whole party explaining rules instead of enjoying it. Also, set up anything messy (paint, glitter, slime, frosting) in one zone so spills stay in one place and don’t spread everywhere around.
The day before, do the “boring” stuff: fill goodie bags, charge the speaker, print the game sheet, tape up the backdrop, and put all supplies for each activity into separate bags or boxes. Label them. Labels do magic if you’re tired.
On party day, put snacks and drinks where kids can grab them without having to ask you every 30 seconds. Keep water easy to reach. For timing, switch activities before kids get bored: short games, short craft, then cake. If you have help, assign one adult to the “door and gifts” job and another to the “photos” job, so you’re not doing everything at once.
Last thing: plan one “backup” that works indoors in case of bad weather or if kids get tired too quickly.
Where to Buy the Best Mermaid & Under-the-Sea Party Supplies
For under the sea party decorations, start with balloons and a few central decor pieces. Balloons give you the most “wow” for the least effort, mainly when used as a garland or photo backdrop. If you want a ready-made look without spending your whole day tying balloons, look for a local balloon shop in Chicago, IL, that can prep it for pickup or set it up on-site, like a balloon arch in Chicago. Add a simple backdrop (shimmer curtain, blue fabric, or a printed ocean scene), and you already have an excellent photo spot.
Party stores and big-box retailers are suitable for matching plates, cups, napkins, tablecloths, and themed candles. Craft stores are great for shell confetti, ribbon, tulle, and tape that actually holds. Dollar stores can cover basics like bubbles, small toys, and plastic “gems” for a treasure hunt. Thrift stores are underrated for decor: glass jars for “sea lanterns,” serving trays, picture frames, baskets, and even blue/green fabric for a “water” table runner. If it’s cheap, it doesn’t mean it’s bad.
Overall, be sure to compare prices and don’t just buy everything at one place, since different stores in Chicago, IL, often offer better deals on other items. Search, compare, and have fun!
Creative Ideas for a Mermaid & Under-the-Sea Birthday Party - FAQ
What decorations are essential for a mermaid party?
Think colorful balloon decor, shimmering tableware, shells, and under-the-sea props like starfish, mermaid figurines, seashell garlands, fish nets, and ocean-themed centerpieces. A balloon wall or photo zone creates a magical backdrop for photos.
What kind of cake and food fits a mermaid theme?
Mermaid cakes, cupcakes with seashell toppers, ocean-inspired cookies, and colorful drinks make the perfect under-the-sea spread. Keep food fun and visually appealing.
What games and activities are fun for an under-the-sea birthday party?
Mermaid treasure hunts, “pin the tail on the mermaid,” ocean-themed crafts, and musical games bring the under-the-sea theme to life. Balloon decor can also be incorporated into activity areas.
What party favors are suitable for a mermaid & under-the-sea birthday party?
Small toys, seashell crafts, mermaid-themed stationery, or goodies in ocean-colored bags work well. You can also include a sea-colored balloon with each favor to make it extra special and festive.
